Tyson Foods launches special snack as a tribute to Razorbacks following John Calipari’s move to Arkansas

Northwest Arkansas-based poultry producer Tyson Foods announced their latest product inspired by Razorbacks and John Calipari's decision. After fifteen years with the Kentucky Wildcats, Calipari decided to move to Arkansas after a few poor seasons.

The two-time NCAA championship-winning coach shared the news of the "Razorback Nuggets" with fans on X, as he wrote:

"My friend John Tyson stopped by practice a few days ago, but he didn’t tell me about these Razorback nuggets! Can’t wait to try them. A great partnership!"

In a statement, the University of Arkansas Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics, Hunter Yurachek said:

"When Arkansas fans cheer on our teams this season they will be inspired by their passion for the Hogs and fueled by the new Tyson Razorback Nuggets. With these two iconic Arkansas brands teaming up, the Razorback Nation will be primed and ready to 'Call the Hogs' from pre-game to post-game while showing their loyal support of our more than 460 Razorback student-athletes."

The Razorback nuggets will be available in select Walmart stores in Northwest Arkansas and Missouri.

The link between John Calipari and John Tyson

John Calipari and John Tyson are longtime friends, having known each other for more than 20 years. They met through common friends in the sports world. Speaking on their relationship, the billionaire said (via Arkansas Democrat-Gazette):

"We just kind of clicked talking about things. Our early conversations were along the lines of, 'How do you develop kids? How do you make kids better? What do you do in leadership situations?

"It's one of those relationships where I respect how he leads at a high level and I think he respects me."

As the key benefactor for his alma mater, the University of Arkansas, John Tyson played a crucial role in bringing John Calipari to Fayetteville. When Eric Musselman left Arkansas for USC, AD Yurachek was prompted to seek Tyson's thoughts on his replacement. His immediate answer was, "Coach Cal".

Lucky for him, John Calipari had also been rethinking his tenure with the Wildcats after consecutive poor seasons and early exits in March Madness.

"Whatever John Tyson would ask me to do, I'm doing," Calipari said (via Arkansas Democrat-Gazette). "He said, 'I need you to meet with our AD. He's going to go through some stuff. I want you to talk to him and help him out. He's a good man. You're going to love meeting him,' and we did.

"I'm not saying 'no' to John. He ain't telling me to take a job or not, but if he wants me to do something, I'm going to listen because he's been a great friend of mine."

Now with the Razorbacks, John Calipari is rebuilding the roster, hoping for better fortunes with the team.